How cell phone distracted driving affects the brain

​Did you know that cell phone conversations, handheld or hands-free, are just as dangerous for drivers? Read the National Safety Council research on the distraction to the brain.

There is no safe way to use a cell phone while driving

Multitasking is a myth

Brain switches between tasks

Driving and talking are both thinking tasks

Can’t do both well if doing them at the same time

​Driving and talking on cell phone are both tasks that require a lot of thought. When doing both, your brain can’t do either well. For example, it’s nearly impossible to follow a TV show while speaking on the phone. Almost everyone has seen a driver distracted by a cell phone, but when you are the one who is distracted, you don’t realize that driver is you.

Understanding the distracted brain

​Many drivers are unaware of the dangers of using cell phones. To better understand why the
brain can't multitask, NSC has compiled more than 30 studies showing why hands-free devices are no safer.

Deadly consequences of cognitive distraction

​Drivers talking on cell phones can be "looking" through the windshield and miss "seeing" up to half of what's around them. Tragically, 12-year-old Joe, was killed by a young woman who didn't see a red light even though four cars and a school bus had all stopped in the next lane. Witnesses saw her on her phone looking straight ahead, and she never even braked. Sadly, this is just one of many stories.